Located in the midst of one of Rome's oldest side streets, Via Margutta, you will find Babette, a darling of a restaurant guaranteed to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience. Opened 11 years ago, this restaurant is a whole new world, a home where the owners who are also the chefs will treat you to some of the most delicious Italian meals with a secret twist.

The interior decor is very warm and tranquil, giving you the impression of eating in a second home. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city, The warm tones, beautiful artwork, books and antique furniture make this restaurant one of a kind, a real authentic venue where you escape the twenty-first century.

What I really noticed in the restaurant is the passion and love with which the food is made. It is one of the only restaurants in Rome who uses extra virgin olive oil when frying and carefully select their produce.

In terms of the menu, you have two depending on whether you come for lunch or dinner. The lunch is slightly more reduced than the dinner menu but still you have some very popular options. You can start your meal with a selection of cured meats or buffalo mozzarella. If you're here for dinner though I advise to try the flan of artichokes and pecorino cheese or the broccoli and brie balls. As for the mains you have a choice of either warm soups or first courses such as Polenta with pork chops pralines which is what we selected. The polenta is one of my favourite Italian winter dishes and went perfectly with the pork chops. We also chose the Tagliolini con salsa di porcini, as I am in love with mushrooms. It was served with bacon on top which was an original addition to the dish. If you fancy something more simple then try their fettuccine with beef ragout! All the pasta is fresh pasta, but In the evening menu you can also chose dry pasta with courgettes, saffron, pistachio pesto and herbs.

Tagliolini con salsa di porcini

In terms of main courses there was a lot to choose from again. Depending on whether you're in the mood for chicken or red meat, they have plenty of options. We opted for the entrecôte, platinum prime rib-eye steak that was cooked medium-rare and was incredibly juicy and flavoursome, sided with a rocket and tomato salad. Otherwise another dish that caught my eye was the fillet with basil sauce, compote of Tropea onion and potatoes au gratin; certainly something I shall try when I return to Rome. Interesting options in the dinner menu are the Quail with veal, pistachio and apricot stuffing or veal wellington with white truffle cream.

Entrecôte platinum prime

When in Rome, you always have to end the meal on a sweet note whether it's a sorbet or a tiramisú. However if you visit Babette, you must try their Babette cake. It is a warm vanilla sponge with raspberry and chocolate coulis. It is the chef's secret recipe so I cannot give many details but it will simply blow your mind.

Babette

So if you find yourself roaming around the roman streets and start to feel peckish, instead of walking around circles looking for somewhere to have some lunch then come directly to Babette, you won't be let down. If you are here in the spring, summer and autumn then you also have the choice to be seated in their outdoor courtyard and enjoy your meal under the warm Italian sun.